IN THEIR OWN WORDS
UGA students talk about the reality of food insecurity and the impact it has on their personal, academic, and physical well-being.
Tamera Wallace
“Receiving the food scholarship has been personally meaningful because it has lifted a burden off my shoulders and provided me with a sense of security. Knowing that I don’t have to worry about where my next meal is coming from has given me peace of mind, allowing me to focus on other aspects of my life, like personal growth. It has also made me feel supported by my community, which motivates me to give back in the future.”
Zac Aaron
“Instead of working multiple jobs to pay for food, I can really invest in myself at the University of Georgia through multiple organizations and thrive academically. I get to enjoy eating socially with so many friends and also have a really nice space to work on homework. It is even a nice moment just sitting by myself and eating, gives me lots more time to just exist with myself. It has meant everything to me.”
Daniel Zavala-Palafox
“As a result of the scholarship, having access to the dining hall allows me to maintain a nutritious diet that feeds my stomach and brain. After a long study session, I am able to maintain my energy and motivation by eating foods that help my mind recover. Now, I am able to allocate more time to study and focus on my academic work. As a result, I’ve been able to maintain my 3.92 GPA. This wouldn’t have been possible without the Let All The Big Dawgs Eat scholarship.“
Annsley Anglin
“The Food Scholarship has not only been helpful to me during one of the hardest times of my life, but it has also shown me just how willing the University of Georgia and its donors are. Dealing with my mom’s cancer diagnosis and subsequent death has caused a great bit of strife in my life, but having resources like the Food Scholarship has taken the monetary stress that comes with buying weekly groceries away, and I can now focus on other things that need to get done.”
Laura Blanco
“Receiving this
scholarship helped ease the burden of expenses that my family has incurred since I started college. It has also allowed me to have access to a reliable food meal plan. This allowed me to focus on my studies and keep a balance with school and a healthy lifestyle. It has given me a sense of validation and
encouragement to keep pushing forward in my academic journey.“
Asa Weil
“I have never felt more connected or a such a sense of belonging and community to a place than this year. I contribute that to the scholarship and how it has allowed me meet new people and enjoy comradery in the dining halls. I was finally able to go to Snelling Dining Hall to “Snellibrate” after a big test with my classmates without having to worry about my finances.“
